Japanese Dentist Reveals: Should You Wet Your Toothbrush Before Brushing?

A Japanese dental expert has revealed the truth about toothbrush preparation before brushing. Is it necessary to wet the toothbrush before applying toothpaste? The results can differ! Brushing teeth is a daily routine. Before squeezing toothpaste onto the brush, some people wet the toothbrush first, while others apply toothpaste directly to a dry brush. Which method is correct? Dr. Ishikawa Sori, a dentist and director of the Toyosu Sencity Dental Clinic in Tokyo, provides clarity on this common question. Question: What should the toothbrush's condition be before starting to brush? A: Wet the brush first, then apply toothpaste B: Apply toothpaste directly to a dry brush Answer: B - Apply toothpaste directly to a dry brush Dipping the toothbrush in water can dilute important components in toothpaste, such as fluoride. Additionally, water creates more foam, which can make it difficult to see remaining plaque and might make you feel like you've finished brushing too quickly, potentially preventing thorough cleaning between teeth and around the gums. Using a dry toothbrush helps reduce foam, allowing you to brush more calmly and pay attention to each tooth. Additional recommendations: This rule has exceptions for people with low saliva production or those using electric toothbrushes, who should consult their device's manual. For most people, additional tips include: - Squeeze about 1-2 cm of toothpaste - After brushing, rinse with just a small amount of water only once to keep fluoride and active ingredients coating the tooth surface.